The president poured them each a couple of fingers and handed one of the glasses to Nick. “Are you enjoying the trip so far?”

“It’s an incredible thrill. Thank you for inviting me to come along.”

“My pleasure.” Nelson was tall with silver hair and startling blue eyes that reminded Nick of Sam’s. He sat next to Nick. “I understand you’re tied up in this Lexicore business.”

“I take it Graham has made his statement.”

“Indeed. You did the right thing dumping the stock as soon as you heard about it. I think you’ll be okay with the voters. We’re hearing most investors were unaware of Lex’s ties to the factory in Thailand.”

“It disgusts me to have been part of what happened there, even in an indirect way.”

“Graham did a good job of conveying your grief over Senator O’Connor’s death and the money you came into afterward. You don’t have anything to worry about.”

“And yet still I worry.”

“I can’t believe this is your first election. You’re a seasoned pro.”

“That’s quite a compliment coming from you, Mr. President.”

“Your family is well?”

“Yes, sir. The Secret Service is keeping a close eye on us in light of the threats Parsons’ supporters made after his arrest.”

“I understand you’ve added a son to the family.”

Nick smiled, thinking of Scotty and the happiness he’d brought to their lives. “Yes, a twelve-year-old who was in state custody in Virginia. I met him on a campaign stop in Richmond and was instantly captivated. He’s an amazing kid.”

“You’ve done a wonderful thing for him.”

“It’s nothing when compared to what he’s done for us.”

“Nick... Do you mind if I call you Nick?”

“By all means. Please.”

“I wanted to speak to you about something highly confidential. I hope I can count on your discretion.”

“Of course.”

Seeming troubled, Nelson took a drink from his glass. “Vice President Gooding has been diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor.”

“Oh my God. That’s awful. I’m so sorry.”

“I am too. He and I go way back. I’m heartbroken for him and his family.” He glanced at Nick, his gaze piercing. “He’s going to resign after the election, which leaves me in need of a vice president. Your name has been mentioned many, many times, and I thought it was about time someone mentioned it to you.”

Nick stared at him, flabbergasted. Was he dreaming this? “Well, I... I have no idea what to say.”

“I can see I’ve blindsided you.”

“Just a bit,” Nick said with a laugh. And he’d thought being on the plane was surreal!